Sonoma Valley

Towns Of Sonoma Valley

Boyes Hot Springs CA
El Verano CA
Eldridge CA
Glen Ellen CA
Kenwood CA
Schellville CA
Temelec CA
Vineburg CA
Sonoma CA

Sonoma Valley Information

The Sonoma County region that's become known as the Sonoma Valley is located in the easternmost portion of the county, not far from the border of another prolific wine-producing region - the Napa Valley.

The valley is nestled between the Mayacamas and Sonoma mountain ranges and boasts 17 miles of incredible scenery, including 13,000 acres of unspoiled parkland. Just 45 minutes north of San Francisco, the Sonoma Valley is often considered the birthplace of Northern California's wine industry.

The Sonoma Valley was the home of the northernmost mission constructed by Father Junipero Serra and the followers of the Franciscan order. The Mission San Francisco Solano de Sonoma was built to protect their interests from Russian fur traders. Visitors can still tour the mission as well as several other historic sites on their visit to this region.

Besides being the birthplace of wine country, the valley's largest town, Sonoma, is considered "the birthplace of California." For twenty-five days, Sonoma served as the capital of the Bear Flag Republic and, ultimately, it was the Bear Flag revolt that led to California's entry into statehood, signaling the end of Mexican rule.

Besides touring the state historic park, visitors to Sonoma can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at some of the prettiest sites in Sonoma County, including 800-acre Bartholomew Memorial Park with its hiking trails and small museum, and Maxwell Farms Regional Park, an ideal location for a picnic. For a little arts and culture, head to the Sebastiani Theater or the local Sonoma Valley Museum of Art. Stick around and enjoy one of more than a dozen festivals that happen in Sonoma each year.

Ten miles southwest of Sonoma is the town of Kenwood, sometimes referred to as "The Valley of the Moon." Located on Highway 12, Kenwood is within easy commuting distance of San Francisco and Oakland and attracts executives who prefer life in the suburbs. The town is home to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, where you'll find the headwaters of Sonoma Creek. Head here for hiking or horseback riding or climb 2,700-foot-high Bald Mountain for a view of the Sonoma Valley.

The town of Glen Ellen is not only rich in vineyards but also in outdoor activities. Guests can visit the 162-acre Sonoma County Regional Park, which provides dirt and paved trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. If you're into American literature, you may want to visit the homestead of Jack London (author of White Fang and The Call of the Wild) at the historic park that bears his name.

The tiny Sonoma County town of Schellville is known for its fleet of antique airplanes. Be sure to stop at the local Aerodrome to enjoy a look at some of the town's excellent vintage aircraft. Located on Highway 12, Schellville is close to the larger towns of Sonoma and Petaluma.

For decades, visitors have flocked to the town of Boyes Hot Springs for a dip in the curative waters that were once revered by the indigenous people of the Sonoma Valley. When you're through basking in the warm waters of the springs, head to nearby state parks like Sonoma or Jack London for some exercise.

The small Sonoma Valley towns of Eldridge, El Verano, Temelec, and Vineburg are picturesque and friendly. All are within easy driving distance of some of the best wineries in Northern California. Nearby parkland provides lots of room to enjoy outdoor pursuits such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, boating, or fishing. All provide close proximity to both San Francisco and Oakland, in case you decide to explore the cities while you're visiting Sonoma County.

Most Sonoma Valley lodging will be found in Sonoma, Kenwood, and Glen Ellen, though you may locate a few small inns in some of the other towns. Restaurants in Sonoma Valley vary from town to town with the largest selection found in Sonoma.